TEHRAN — In a sensational Group D encounter at Azadi Stadium on Tuesday, Neymar's inaugural goal in Al-Hilal colors played a pivotal role in securing a resounding 3-0 away victory against Nassaji Mazandaran in the AFC Champions League. The match unfolded with disparate beginnings for the two teams in the 2023/24 continental campaign. Nassaji, in their maiden appearance in the competition, clinched a 2-0 victory against Mumbai City in Maharashtra. In contrast, Al-Hilal required a late Ali Al Bulayhi goal to salvage a point at home against Navbahor. The early moments seemed to favor Al-Hilal when a dynamic combination between Neymar and Aleksandar Mitrovic resulted in a goal, only to be disallowed after VAR scrutiny due to an offside call. Mitrovic continued to pose a threat, testing Nassaji's goalkeeper Mohammad Rashid Mazaheri with a powerful shot that was expertly pushed away. However, Mazaheri could do little when Mitrovic rose unmarked to head in a cross from Mohammed Al-Burayk, opening the scoring for Al-Hilal in the 18th minute. Tensions escalated before halftime as an altercation between Vahid Mohammedzadeh and Mitrovic led to a brawl, resulting in the ejections of Al-Hilal captain Salman Al-Faraj and Nassaji's Amir Houshmand. The second half witnessed Michael's attempt to extend Al-Hilal's lead, but Mazaheri made a crucial save. Al-Hilal goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais showcased his skills with a diving save to deny Mohammadreza Azadi's powerful strike. Neymar made a significant impact in the 58th minute, securing his debut goal for Al-Hilal by skillfully finishing a sequence involving Nasser Al-Dawsari. Despite a near-miss for a quick double, Nassaji's efforts, including a strike hitting the crossbar, were thwarted. Substitute Saleh Al-Shehri sealed the victory for Al Hilal, redirecting Al-Dawsari's shot into the net. With their first win of the campaign, Al-Hilal sets sights on a home fixture against Mumbai City, while Nassaji aims for redemption in an away clash against Navbahor on Matchday Three.
